Are you a first-time homeowner that’s considering a roof replacement? Like most homeowners, you’re probably unsure what to do and maybe a little nervous about the process. You may also not be sure of the safety precautions you should take when trying to replace the old shingles.
Fortunately, there are some tips you can follow to make sure that the whole process goes smoothly and that you don’t overlook anything. They will make your roof replacement as safe, reliable, and effective as possible.
Keep reading to learn more about these tips in home improvement.
1. GET AN INSPECTION
Getting a roof inspection is essential when planning shingles replacement in home improvement. There can be plenty of problems you don’t notice until after the roof is removed. This is especially if the roof has been there for a while.
Before removing the roof, it’s a good idea to have services from a trained professional inspect it to ensure no problems are overlooked. These professionals can check out anything from the roof pitch to the roof vents; releasing hot air to the flashing. They can even check for any possible wood damage on the decking before placing new shingles.
2. MIND YOUR KIDS AND PETS
Roof work zones are some of the most dangerous places to be, especially if you have young children or pets. Loud noises and vibrations can be extremely bothersome to children and pets and can be a real distraction while work is being done.
Minding the life of your kids and pets and keeping them away before starting any services would be best. You can even ask a friend or family member to watch them if you have to for roofers to complete re roofing successfully.
3. BE SURE TO RELOCATE ALL YOUR VEHICLES
On top of keeping your children and pets safe, remember to relocate all your vehicles. This is because your roofing contractors will need ample space to place all their asphalt shingles and other components like tar paper they need to use while delivering their services.
As such, be sure to clear, move or cover all of your vehicles to ensure that they’re not in a position that will slow down their services (even when parked).
Also, remember to close your garage door, as you don’t want any dust or debris inside after the roof replacement.
4. REMOVE WALL DECORATIONS AND LIGHT FIXTURES
Home decorations and light fixtures can be pretty unstable. They can fall over or fracture if they aren’t correctly taken care of.
If you have such decorations or items; rustic in any way, be sure to ask your roofing contractor if they can remove them from the walls before starting the roof replacement project.
Removing them from the walls will ensure that they aren’t broken, and you won’t have to worry about them coming loose and falling while work is in progress.
5. LET YOUR CONTRACTOR KNOW ABOUT ANY ACCESS ISSUES
If you have any areas that are difficult to reach or need special equipment to get to, be sure to let your contractor know about them. They should be able to plan their construction project around these areas to ensure they can access all necessary areas. For instance, you may have issues with your decking and may have to remove it before installation begins.
6. COVER ALL YOUR ITEMS IN THE ATTIC
Most homeowners are concerned with the safety of their items. Fortunately, this is something that your contractor can quickly help you with. Before the workers start removing the old roof, ensure you protect everything in the attic.
One way to do this is by placing a tarp over it. This will keep your entire items safe, and it will also keep them from getting damaged.
After they complete construction, consider thoroughly vacuuming your attic and decking to remove dust.
7. RELOCATE YOUR PATIO FURNITURE AND GRILLS
When the new roof is installed, the patio area could be where workers stack materials like architectural shingles and tar paper and dispose of waste. A table or grill could easily get damaged if it’s in the wrong place. As such, ask your contractor to put these items away for you.
If you have a spacious garage, you may want to move your grill, patio furniture, and other items like potted plants and lawn ornaments. It will free up space around the house and keep them safe when the project is going on.
If you do not have a garage, place the items in an area far from the work area.
8. CUT GRASS AND PRUNE TREES BEFORE PROJECT START
Before installing your new roof, you should trim back any excess grass or tree branches in your yard. This is important for two reasons:
- It will ensure that the workers have plenty of space to work when replacing the roof. This is especially important when it comes to working on the new roof.
- It will ensure contractors don’t need extra work while replacing the roof.
While you prepare to cut grass and prune trees, also be sure to use drop cloths at your neighbor’s perimeter. It will help protect them from any nails or debris falling or getting on their lawn during roofing.
9. IDENTIFY DIFFERENT ACCESSIBLE POWER OUTLETS
Some power outlets may be accessible from the outside of your house. As such, you will want to provide your contractor with a list of these outlets.
This is important because, during roofing construction, there could be situations where the roof contractors will have to run cables through these areas. Not only will this make the process easier, but it will also ensure that no unnecessary tear occurs.
10. REMOVE YOUR ANTENNAS AND SATELLITE DISHES
You may want to remove antennas and satellite dishes before new roof construction begins. It will help prevent any unnecessary damage to the dish or antenna, and it will also help to simplify the process.
11. INFORM YOUR NEIGHBORS EARLIER RATHER THAN LATER
You’ll want to make sure that your neighbors are aware of the work that you’ll be having done. As such, you may want to inform them several days in advance before work begins.
This way, they won’t be bothered when they stay home, and you’ll be sure to protect everyone during the whole process.
12. CLOSE YOUR HVAC DUCTS
There will be a lot of dust during roof replacement. As such, it’s always a good idea to close your ducts and vents before construction begins.
It will keep them from getting damaged or filled with debris during installation.
CONCLUSION
In roofing lingo, “prep” is often used to mean “prepare.” Preparing for a new roof installation is essential because it will help protect your home and make the process and cost easier.
Contact us today for a free consultation for your needs, such as our roof cost estimates.